Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty for Glaucoma

Outpatient Laser Treatment to Lower Eye Pressure

Selective laser trabeculoplasty for glaucoma (SLT) is an outpatient laser procedure used to lower intraocular pressure (IOP), particularly in people with open-angle glaucoma. SLT targets cells in the trabecular meshwork, helping improve the drainage of aqueous humor from the eye and lower eye pressure.

The procedure takes about 15 minutes to perform. Prior to the procedure, a topical anesthetic drop is placed on the eye and a contact lens is placed on the eye. The laser applications are made through a microscope that looks similar to the one your doctor examines your eye with in the office. Once the laser is completed, you will have to wait for a period of time to have your eye pressure checked. Allow 2 hours for the entire procedure. You will need to use an anti-inflammatory drop in the eye for several days following the procedure.

Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) is a new procedure performed to lower intraocular pressure (IOP)
Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) is a new procedure performed to lower intraocular pressure (IOP)
Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty improves fluid drainage and lowers eye pressure
Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty improves fluid drainage and lowers eye pressure

Recovery and Benefits of Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty

Several postoperative visits will be scheduled to monitor your eye pressure. Expect several weeks before your doctor sees a lower pressure in the eye treated. Early results show that the laser may be repeated if necessary.

Benefits of the laser include no adverse events from added medications and the delay of a surgical procedure. Please feel free to discuss this laser or other procedures with your physician.